Pat's Answer

Hi, welcome to Ask Pat. 

You are very brave to get in touch with us, we know it is not always easy to do. 

You state you need help and that you are in danger. We are really concerned for your safety. At any moment if you feel you are not safe, you have the right to phone 999 or 112, for emergency services. You have the right to be always safe. 

You also mention you are unable to register, that you are unable to create a password. We are sorry you experienced this. The good news is that there are a few ways of getting in touch with Childline. Along with Ask Pat and our web chat, you can also contact us by phone on 1800 666666 or by text at 50101. 

Parents/guardians have a responsibility to look out for their children and make sure they are loved and safe. When this is not the case, then you have the right as a young person to reach out and talk to someone. Other adults in your life like your teachers, principal, relatives, and doctor have a responsibility to listen to you and get you help if you need some. Túsla is the State Agency for children and families in Ireland. It is made up of social workers, people whose job it is to help make sure that every young person is living in a safe home. You can contact your local Túsla office yourself or with a trusted adult. You can find your local office here www.tusla.ie/get-in-touch/local-area-offices/.

There are some articles you might like to look at on the Childline website: www.childline.ie/what-is-abuse/;  www.childline.ie/home-and-families/ . You may find some helpful information in them.   

If you are in a situation where you would prefer someone else to phone emergency services or Túsla for you, Childline is always here to make that call on your behalf. You can contact us for a chat first, and we can go through some options that may be available to you. We are a completely confidential service, unless you choose to give us identifying information. We will not give out to you, judge you or tell you what to do. It is always your choice what to talk about, and what decision you want to make. You can get in touch with us by phone, text and webchat at the numbers above. Childline is open 24 hours every day. Childline never closes. 

You are incredibly brave for getting in touch. Mind yourself. We hope to hear from you soon, 

Warm Regards, 

Pat